Remember, knowing the basics of food groups is your best tool to make healthy decisions when eating on campus, off-campus, or anywhere in between. By utilizing the resouces around you, opportunities to eat more consciously become more visible.
Fruits
Fresh, frozen, canned, dried – you name it! Focus on whole fruits; they are better for you in the long run!
Vegetables
Try to make half your plate fruits and veggies. There are five vegetable subgroups, so make sure you eat a variety of color with your meals.
Dairy
This group includes milk, cheese, yogurt, and fortified beverages including soymilk. Try to eat low-fat or fat-free yogurt and milk!
Grains
You should eat most of your calories from this category. Brown rice, potatoes, or whole-wheat toast are good options! The USDA recommends making half your grains whole grains.
Protein
You don’t have to eat meat to fulfill your protein requirements. Soybeans, nuts, seeds, and seafood all count! Make sure you choose lean cuts of meat of 92% lean or higher.